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On the most recent episode of The Expressive Mom Show, I’m joined by Amy Weber, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in child and adolescent psychotherapy and parent coaching. Amy also offers individual and group therapy for children and families.
She provides guidance on developmental challenges like picky eating, toilet training, and sleep issues, with a strong focus on helping families navigate neurodivergence and trauma.

As an author of children’s books and a parenting blogger, Amy also co-hosts the YouTube channel The Playful Therapists of Speak, Learn, & Play, where she shares valuable insights into the inner worlds of neurodivergent children.

She uses neuroscience-based strategies and a compassionate approach to help parents understand their children’s behavior and build meaningful, connected relationships without relying on traditional reward systems.

In the meantime, let’s explore the realities of parenting neurodiverse children.

Neurodiverse Parenting: The Emotional and Social Toll of Isolation

Raising neurodivergent children often means navigating a world that doesn’t fully understand or support their needs. This lack of awareness can leave families isolated, as extended relatives, educators, and peers may struggle to offer meaningful support.

The Unending Role of Advocacy

Advocacy is a constant demand for families. From securing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in schools to navigating insurance red tape for therapy coverage, parents are often locked in a battle to access essential resources.

Financial Pressures Weigh Heavy

The costs of specialized therapies, adaptive equipment, and private interventions can be overwhelming. For many families, the financial burden is a source of constant stress, adding to an already heavy emotional load.

Guilt, Grief, and Emotional Complexity

Parents may wrestle with feelings of guilt or grief as they adjust their expectations for their child’s development. This emotional complexity is a natural part of the journey but can be profoundly draining.

The Chaos of Daily Life

Unpredictability is a hallmark of life with neurodivergent children. Sensory sensitivities and meltdowns can turn ordinary days into significant challenges, often creating tension and strain within the family.

Resilience and Love Shine Through

Despite the hardships, raising neurodivergent children is also a journey of profound love and growth. Families develop resilience, celebrate milestones, and discover extraordinary strength in shared experiences.

Connect with Amy on her sites, https://www.amyweberlcsw.com/ and  https://speaklearnandplay.com/, Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/speaklearnandplay, Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/amyweberlcsw/ and her YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@ThePlayfulTherapistsofSLP.

Follow Expressive Mom’s Instagram at @anexpressivemom and on Substack: https://expressivemom.substack.com.


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